Former ‘Empire’ star Jussie Smollett has reflected on the overwhelming public support he received after coming forward with his alleged hate crime allegation, which he described as ‘extremely emasculating.’ In a recent Netflix documentary, titled ‘The Truth About Jussie Smollett?’, he opened up about the torrent of messages from A-list celebrities and public figures, including Viola Davis and former Vice President Joe Biden, who rallied behind him following his January 2019 reported attack.
Smollett detailed how he felt overwhelmed and uncomfortable with the adulation, with the documentary showing clips of prominent figures publicly endorsing his claim of being subjected to a racial and homophobic attack. However, the incident was later revealed to be a hoax, as Smollett had orchestrated the attack by hiring two Nigerian brothers to assault him while wearing red hats. He was convicted for his crimes against Chicago, serving a brief jail sentence before his conviction was overturned in 2024.
Despite the legal outcome, Smollett maintains his original story, denying any involvement in orchestrating the hate crime. He recently settled with the city of Chicago, and he continues to stand by his allegations. The case has remained a subject of intense media and political scrutiny, highlighting the complex interplay between public perception, media coverage, and legal consequences.